A library catalog card is a compact record for a book. Traditional cards usually include the author, title, publication details, physical description, subject notes, and a call number or shelf location. If you are making cards for a home library, classroom, scrapbook, or prop project, you can keep the same classic structure without needing a full library database.
What to Put on a Library Catalog Card
Start with the information someone would need to identify and find the book. The most useful fields are:
- Call number, shelf code, or entry number
- Author name, usually formatted as last name, first name
- Book title and subtitle
- Publisher, city, and year
- Page count or physical description
- Short notes, summary, genre, or subject terms
How to Create a Printable Card
- Open the free library catalog card generator.
- Enter the book details you want on the card.
- Choose a style, such as vintage typewriter, modern serif, or clean sans.
- Pick a card size for printing or saving.
- Download the finished catalog card as a PNG or PDF.
When to Use a Catalog Card Template
A library catalog card template is helpful when you want consistent cards across a collection. Teachers can use them for classroom libraries, readers can use them in journals, and makers can use them for book-themed displays or gifts. The generator gives you a repeatable layout without needing to design each card from scratch.
Tips for Better-Looking Cards
Keep titles readable, shorten long summaries, and use the same style across related cards. For a more authentic look, try a typewriter-style font and print on ivory or cream card stock.
Helpful supplies for printable catalog cards
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Wooden card catalog drawer with dividers for storing printed catalog cards.
Heavy blank cards for printing catalog cards with a warm vintage look.
Ready to make one?
Create your own printable card with the free library card creator.
Open the generator